It's that time of year again to think about changing the tires on your vehicle.

Experts say snow tires provide you with a better grip on snow and ice than the so-called all seasonal radials.

"Well I alway say that winter tires are sort of like air conditioning. If you've never had them, you say you don't need it. Once you've had it, you can't live without it." said Kerry Roberts, manager of the Kal Tire outlet in Weyburn.

Roberts says winter tires not only have a different grip, but some are often made with a softer rubber that provides more traction. Some winter tires also include studs.

While the winter tires are an option in Saskatchewan, they are mandatory in some parts of the country. "There's places like Quebec, in Canada, and the Coquihalla in B.C. where you do have to have winter tires," said Roberts. "And the government does test them for stops, starts, and turn testing on ice and snow."

Roberts urges people to invest in winter tires for safety on ice and snow. And he says if you have doubts, check out consumer reports.